BHSHRM January Newsletter

President's Report

Happy January, Black Hills SHRM Members!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and a great start to the new year. On behalf of the Black Hills SHRM Board, thank you for being here and for being a valued part of our HR community. Your engagement, support, and commitment are what make this chapter thrive.

I am truly honored and excited to step into the role of your 2026 Board President. I have the privilege of building on the strong foundation set by our previous President, Ally Formanek, and I’m grateful for her leadership, dedication, and impact on our chapter.

As I begin this role, my vision is to continue building a vibrant and supportive community of HR professionals who learn from one another, grow together, and stay connected. We have an excellent lineup of speakers and events planned for the year ahead. You’ll also see a continued focus on increasing membership, and I encourage everyone to help spread the word and learn more about our referral program. We also plan to expand networking opportunities and explore alternative programming options, especially during the summer months. Most importantly, I want Black Hills SHRM to be a place where members feel connected, supported, and inspired to keep learning.

We’ve got some exciting events on the horizon, starting with our upcoming chapter meeting featuring speaker Whitney Bischoff. Her presentation, “Taking Care of You!” addresses the very real challenge of balancing the many roles we all play.

As we kick off the year, I also encourage you to check your membership status. Have you renewed your 2026 Black Hills SHRM membership? If not, renewal is now live on our website. Your membership helps ensure we can continue offering high-quality programming and meaningful opportunities for connection throughout the year.

Thank you again for being part of Black Hills SHRM. I’m looking forward to a year filled with learning, collaboration, and community. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.

Ara Baumstarck

Chapter Meeting

Taking Care of You!
January 27, 2026
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

BHSU - University Center 4300 Cheyenne Boulevard, Rapid City, SD 57703

Taking Care of You!

Life pulls us in many directions, and with the multiple roles we play, finding a healthy balance can feel overwhelming. This presentation guides participants in identifying their biggest challenges and recognizing the early signs of burnout. We will explore practical strategies for coping, building resilience, and self-care that are realistic and sustainable—designed to fit into even the busiest lives. YES – we’ll also talk about the power of saying NO as a vital part of protecting your well-being.

About the Speaker:

Whitney Bischoff currently serves as the Student Programs Manager for mental wellness and suicide prevention non-profit Lost&Found. Whitney has a passion for working with students to help them see the potential they may not see in themselves. Whitney has spent 10+ years working in higher education and has dedicated her work in creating campus communities that focus on care. Whitney also serves as the immediate past president of South Dakota Higher Education Association and hosts the "Dose of Feel Good" podcast spreading the power of positive mindset and kindness.

Registration: 8:00 - 8:30AM

Presentation begins at 8:30AM

Tickets

$30 Non-Member Registration

$20 Member Ticket

HR Jobs

It is easier than ever to submit local HR jobs for posting on our website!

Click HERE to view or submit a job posting!

Facebook

Check out the Black Hills SHRM Facebook page for updated information and events!

Legislative Update

Trump Moves to Pre-Empt State AI Laws with Executive Order – source SHRM

President Donald Trump issued a Dec. 11 executive order aimed at limiting state-by-state regulation of artificial intelligence. It directs the attorney general to create a task force within 30 days to coordinate litigation against state AI laws, and instructs the Commerce Department to review “onerous” state AI regulations within 90 days. The order also links federal broadband funding to whether state rules align with federal priorities.

Over the same 90-day period, the FTC is directed to clarify how unfair or deceptive practices standards apply to AI, and the FCC is told to begin considering a nationwide disclosure and reporting approach for AI models that would override conflicting state standards. The White House is also seeking a legislative recommendation for a uniform federal AI framework that pre-empts conflicting state laws, and agencies are asked to evaluate state AI policies and potentially tie grant funding to compliance

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House Panel Spars Over National E-Verify Mandate – source SHRM

Lawmakers are again debating whether E-Verify, the federal employment eligibility verification system created in 1997, should become mandatory for all employers. During a Nov. 19 House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections hearing, supporters highlighted E-Verify’s role in helping employers comply with existing law, verify work authorization quickly, and promote a lawful workforce, while acknowledging limitations such as its inability to fully detect identity fraud. Currently, E-Verify is voluntary for most employers, with about 1.39 million participating nationwide, certain federal contractors required to enroll, and 22 states mandating its use for some employers.

Critics raised concerns about accuracy, worker burdens, and unintended consequences, citing error rates that can wrongly flag authorized workers and push unauthorized workers into the informal economy. Legal, worker advocacy, and employer groups generally agreed that any national mandate would require significant reforms to balance enforcement, worker protections, and practical employer compliance.

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EEOC Guidance Makes Anti-US Bias an Enforcement Priority – source SHRM

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has released updated educational materials on national origin discrimination, including a new technical assistance document titled “Discrimination Against American Workers Is Against the Law.” Discrimination Against American Workers Is Against The Law | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, it is unlawful to discriminate against people based on race, color, sex, national origin, or religion — collectively known as protected characteristics.

Earlier this year, then-acting EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas stated, “The EEOC is putting employers and other covered entities on notice: if you are part of the pipeline contributing to our immigration crisis or abusing our legal immigration system via illegal preferences against American workers, you must stop.”

For HR professionals, the issuance of the technical assistance document is a continuation of Lucas’ earlier statements concerning how the agency is prioritizing the enforcement of national origin discrimination under Title VII — even though the underlying law has not changed.

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IRS Boosting 401(k) contribution limits for 2026 – source SHRM

Starting next year, employees can contribute up to $24,500 into their 401(k) and 403(b) plans, most 457 plans, and the Thrift Savings Plan for federal employees, the IRS announced Nov. 13. That’s a $1,000 jump from the $23,500 limit in 2025.

The catch-up contribution limit for employees ages 50 and older who participate in 401(k) and 403(b) plans, most 457 plans, and the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan will rise to $8,000 from $7,500. Those aged 60 to 63 can instead save an extra $11,250, based on changes due to SECURE Act 2.0.

The limit on total employer-plus-employee contributions to defined contribution plans will increase to $72,000 in 2026, up from $70,000 in 2025.

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D.C. Circuit Says Presidents Can Fire NLRB Members At Will source SHRM

A recent federal appeals court ruling has cast new uncertainty over the long-assumed independence of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), holding that the president may have broad constitutional authority to remove NLRB members at will. The decision, which departs from decades of practice and hinges on a key Supreme Court precedent, is now before the U.S. Supreme Court.

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What Employers Need to Know About the WOTC Program Hiatus Starting in 2026 – source SD Department of Labor

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) program is currently authorized through Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025. Effective Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, the program will enter a hiatus period pending authorization from the U.S. Department of Labor. During the hiatus, South Dakota will continue to accept and process WOTC applications, but final certifications or denials cannot be issued until the program is reauthorized. Please see link for more information: Employer Connection Email | WOTC Program Update for 2026

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Federal Mileage Reimbursement Rate for 2026 – source Mineral Platform

Starting January 1, 2026, the IRS standard mileage rate will be 72.5 cents per mile driven for business purposes (up from 70 cents in 2025). This rate also applies to electric and hybrid vehicles.

Use of this rate is optional for private employers, though it’s widely accepted as an easy and standard reimbursement rate for employees who use their personal vehicle for work. If your organization uses the IRS rate to calculate mileage reimbursement, be sure to update your systems to account for this change.

The 2026 IRS standard mileage rate was announced on December 29, 2025.

Renew Your Membership

It's time to renew your BHSHRM membership for 2026! Don't miss out on the valuable benefits of being part of our professional community. Here's what you gain by renewing:

Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Connect with HR professionals across industries to share insights and grow your career.
Educational Events: Access training sessions and conferences designed to enhance your HR expertise.
Professional Growth: Enjoy discounts on certifications and gain opportunities for leadership roles within BHSHRM.

Black Hills Society for Human Resource Management - Home Page

State SHRM Conference

We would like to formally invite you to register for our event.

The South Dakota SHRM State Council is pleased to be hosting the 2026 South Dakota SHRM Conference at Cedar Shores in Oacoma, SD from April 30, 2026 to May 2, 2026.

In a time of rapid change, the call to lead with dignity has never been more urgent - or more powerful. This HR conference brings together visionary leaders, change-makers, and people-first professionals to explore how transformation can be driven with empathy integrity, and purpose.

What to Expect:

Inspiring Keynotes from visionary and engaging thought leaders
Networking Opportunities with peers who share your passion for people
Actionable Strategies to elevate your HR practice and empoyer your workfoce

Whether you are an HR professional, team lead, or culture champion, this conference will equip you with the tools and mindset to lead boldly - without compromising humanity.

Here's a few things to know:

Conference Dates: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 to May 1, 2026
Location: Cedar Shores Resort, Oacoma, SD
Agenda & Session Details: Coming Soon!

Below is information about the hotels in the area:

Cedar Shores Resort - $124.00 per night (*Room Block will drop on March 30, 2026) - Cedar Shore Resort and Conference Center - Reservations - Room Availability
AmericInn - $110.00 per night AmericInn - Chamberlain South Dakota - Home Page
Baymont Inn - $115.00 per night (They offer a shuttle, no elevator) -Baymont by Wyndham Oacoma - ReservationDesk.com
Best Western Lee's Motor Inn - $120.00 per night - Best Western Lee's Motor Inn - ReservationDesk.com
Quality Inn - $89.00 per night - Hotel in Oacoma, SD | Quality Inn Oacoma - Chamberlain | Maximize Your Vacation

**Refund Policy: Cancellations will receive a full refund until March 31^st. Unable to attend? Consider sharing your ticket with a colleague.

South Dakota State SHRM Council

Certification Preparation Classes COMING SOON!

Is getting your SHRM certification on your resolution list for this year?? We will have a new session starting in September. The group meets weekly for 12 weeks to review the SHRM Learning System materials and help you prepare for your certification exam. We need a minimum of 5 students to hold the class. The cost for the SHRM Learning System materials would be $615 per participant which is a significant discount compared to purchasing on your own through SHRM ($1,055 - $1,180 regular price).

Please e-mail Tye Kuyper ([email protected]) for more information!

The study group is a great way to learn the material and also provides an excellent networking opportunity.

Books and Brews

Join us for Books & Brews, a relaxed and engaging opportunity to connect with fellow HR professionals while diving into meaningful, thought-provoking leadership concepts. Our first book selection is Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek, a powerful exploration of trust, teamwork, and servant leadership.

Book: Leaders Eat Last – Simon Sinek
Disscusion: Chapters 1–2
First Meeting: February 4
Time: 4:30–5:30 PM
Location: Zymurcracy Brewing | 4624 Creek Drive

Whether you’re a seasoned leader or simply passionate about leadership development, come ready for great conversation, insights, and connection. We hope to see you there!

Mark Your Calendars

The next three meetings are scheduled as follows:

January 27	Breakfast Meeting (8:00 – 9:30)	Taking Care of You	Whitney Bischoff of Lost & Found Location: University Center
February 24	Luncheon Meeting (11:30 – 1:00)	AI: What happens when your receptionist is smarter than your CEO?	Speaker: Jacob West Location: The Rushmore
March 24	Luncheon Meeting (11:00-1:00)	Pro-Active Vs. Reactive Leadership	Speaker: Tracy Palecek Location: The Rushmore

Please mark your calendars. We look forward to seeing you there!

Open Board Positions

Open Position: College Relations on the BHSHRM Board

We currently have an open position for College Relations on the BHSHRM Board. This role is a great opportunity to engage with local colleges and help foster the next generation of HR professionals. If you're interested in contributing to this important area, please reach out to one of our board members for more information.

Welcome New Members

We’re excited to welcome our newest members to the BHSHRM community! We’re thrilled to have you join us and look forward to collaborating, learning, and growing together. As a member, you’ll have access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and events that support your professional development in HR. If you have any questions or need support, feel free to reach out to any of our board members. Welcome aboard!

Lance Fuhrmann, HR Manager at Reptile Gardens

Victoria Stegman, Training Coordinator at Sentinel FCU

Liz Highland, Operations Director for Elevate Rapid City

Unlock the Power of Aprreniceships

Monthly Online Apprenticeship Knowledge Series Launches in January

Starting this month, the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation‘s Start Today SD Team is hosting the Apprenticeship Knowledge Series. This monthly webinar series is designed to help employers, education partners, and stakeholders navigate the world of Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) in just 30 minutes.

The first quarter of 2026 will focus on Youth Apprenticeship. Participants will learn about labor law exemptions and the benefits of youth apprenticeship programs for both employers and young workers. Each of the first three sessions will cover the same content. You can choose the session that best fits your schedule.

When: Jan. 15, Feb. 19, and March 19

Time: 11:30 a.m. CT/10:30 a.m. MT

How to Participate: Registration is required. Please visit tinyurl.com/dlr-workshops and select your preferred date from the event calendar to sign up.

For questions, reach out to the Start Today Team at [email protected] or call 605-610-7031.